Cauda equina syndrome can leave its victim with a variety of debilitating long-term disabilities. Sexual dysfunction is one of the most distressing.
What is cauda equina syndrome?
Cauda equina syndrome is a neurological condition of the lower body. If diagnosis and treatment are delayed, it can cause the following permanent symptoms:
- Urinary incontinence
- Faecal incontinence
- Wind incontinence
- Mobility problems with foot drop
- Weakness of the legs
- Sexual dysfunction
With regard to the last symptom, it can mean that women lose sexual sensation and have little or no feeling during intercourse. For men, it can mean a loss of feeling and an inability to ejaculate.
Why does it cause sexual dysfunction?
Cauda equina syndrome is caused by compression – or squashing – of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine.
These nerves control the experience of sensation in the pelvic region, legs and feet. They also control the passing of instruction from the brain to the muscles in that area of the body.
This means that, if the nerves are not able to work effectively because they are compressed, the sufferer cannot experience sensation in the lower body or instruct the body to carry out certain actions.
Could this have been avoided?
It is possible to avoid developing complete cauda equina syndrome (where significant functions of the lower body may be lost) by ensuring that the patient receives decompression surgery before urinary function is lost.
The extent of the patient’s loss of urinary function at the time of surgery appears to be crucial to the outcome. Whilst the patient is likely to be suffering some urinary difficulties, if they still have some sensation of needing to urinate at the time of surgery, then they have a good chance of recovery if surgery occurs before that sensation is lost.
However, for surgery to occur, the patient must have a confirmed diagnosis and this usually requires an MRI scan.
Recognition of early symptoms and referral for an emergency MRI are vital stages on the road to a good recovery.
Medical Negligence
If you are suffering with the appalling symptoms of cauda equina syndrome due to a failure to ensure that you underwent a prompt MRI scan, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
Contact us to discuss your experience with a medical negligence solicitor who specialises in cauda equina syndrome.